Types of Commercial Desiccants: Where & How to Get the Best Solution

Commercial desiccants play a vital role in controlling moisture levels and preserving the quality of various products and materials. From food and pharmaceuticals to electronics and machinery, desiccants are essential in preventing moisture damage, degradation, and the growth of mold and mildew. 

Given this might be your first purchase decision, we are going to dive into where and how to buy commercial desiccants, discuss common commercial use cases, and outline the different types of desiccants available. 

Additionally, we will delve into the pros and cons of purchasing desiccants from different sources, enabling you to make an informed decision.

Where to Buy Desiccant

When it comes to purchasing commercial desiccants, there are several options available to suit your specific needs.

Specialty Desiccant Suppliers

Specialty desiccant suppliers are an excellent choice for comprehensive solutions and expertise in selecting the right desiccant for your application. These suppliers offer a wide range of desiccant types, customizable packaging options, and bulk purchasing discounts. They have knowledgeable customer support teams who can provide guidance and assistance throughout the purchasing process. 

Additionally, specialty suppliers ensure reliable supply chain management and prompt delivery, making them ideal for businesses with consistent desiccant requirements.

To easily find a desiccant distributor, click here. 

General Retailers and Hardware Stores

For smaller-scale operations or occasional use, general retailers and hardware stores offer convenience and accessibility. These stores typically carry a limited selection of desiccants, which may be suitable for basic applications. 

However, they may lack specialized knowledge and guidance specific to commercial use cases. Keep in mind that prices for commercial quantities might be higher compared to specialty suppliers.

Online Marketplaces

Online marketplaces and dedicated industrial supply websites provide a vast array of desiccant options from various sellers. These platforms offer the convenience of browsing through multiple suppliers, providing competitive pricing due to marketplace competition. User reviews and ratings can also assist in evaluating the quality and effectiveness of different desiccant products. 

However, caution should be exercised to ensure the authenticity and reliability of the sellers, especially when dealing with unverified sources.

To start now with Van Air Systems - a leader in the space since 1944 - you can shop a wide selection of desiccants here. 

Ultimately, the choice of where to buy commercial desiccants depends on factors such as the scale of your operation, specialized requirements, budget considerations, and the level of personalized guidance needed. 

Taking the time to research and evaluate the available options will help you find the best source for acquiring high-quality desiccants that meet your specific commercial needs.

Commercial Use Cases

Desiccants are vital tools across a wide range of industries. In the food and beverage sector, pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, electronics and machinery manufacturers, textile and leather goods, and even playing a crucial role in preserving valuable art and historical artifacts in museums and collections.

The longevity of desiccants varies depending on factors such as the type of desiccant used, the moisture conditions, and the application. However, desiccants can often be effective for extended periods, providing ongoing moisture control and protection.

Food and Beverage Industry: Desiccants are employed to maintain the freshness and quality of food products by absorbing excess moisture that can lead to spoilage or the growth of bacteria.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supplies: Desiccants are used to preserve the efficacy and extend the shelf life of medicines, vaccines, diagnostic kits, and medical devices by preventing moisture-induced degradation.

Electronics and Machinery: In these industries, desiccants are utilized to protect sensitive electronic components and machinery from moisture damage, corrosion, and short circuits.

Textiles and Leather Goods: Desiccants help maintain the integrity and prevent mold or mildew growth in textiles, garments, leather goods, and other moisture-sensitive materials during storage or transportation.

Art and Artifact Preservation: Museums and collectors utilize desiccants to control humidity levels and prevent moisture-related damage to paintings, documents, sculptures, and historical artifacts.

Types of Desiccants

Silica Gel: Silica gel is one of the most commonly used desiccants. It is available in various forms, such as sachets, beads, or bulk, and can absorb moisture up to 40% of its own weight.

Molecular Sieve: These desiccants have a highly porous structure and are effective at absorbing water vapor and other gasses. Molecular sieves are commonly used in the petrochemical, natural gas, and oxygen generation industries.

Activated Alumina: Activated alumina consists of porous aluminum oxide with a large surface area, making it highly effective in adsorbing moisture and purifying liquids. It is often used in air and gas drying applications.

Deliquescent Desiccants: A deliquescent desiccant is a hygroscopic substance used as a drying agent, especially for industrial purposes. It absorbs moisture from its surroundings until it dissolves or liquefies, making it a dependable and energy-free tool for various industrial drying applications. Options include Dry-O-Lite (industry-leading affordability and effectiveness), SP (formulated for natural gas dehydration), and 10BF (most effective for pipeline dryers).

Clay Desiccants: Made from natural clay minerals, clay desiccants are cost-effective and suitable for moderate moisture absorption requirements. They are often used in packaging applications.

Calcium Oxide: Also known as quicklime or lime, calcium oxide is a powerful desiccant that can absorb large amounts of moisture. It is commonly used in construction and shipping industries.

Desiccant Packs: Pre-packaged desiccant units, available in various sizes and materials, offer convenience and ease of use. These packs often contain silica gel or clay desiccants and are widely used in electronics, pharmaceuticals, and food packaging.

In the end, understanding the specific requirements of your application, exploring different desiccant types, and considering the pros and cons of different sources are crucial steps in acquiring the best desiccant solution. 

Specialty desiccant suppliers offer expertise, customized solutions, and cost savings for larger operations, while general retailers and online marketplaces provide convenience and accessibility for smaller-scale needs. By making an informed decision, you can effectively control moisture and safeguard the integrity of your commercial products or materials.